Zango-Kataf PDP Stakeholders Rejects Alleged Plot To Replace Reps Primary Winner

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State has rejected an alleged move to substitute the winner of the party's House of Representatives primary election for the Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency, warning that such action could undermine the party's internal democratic process.

Speaking at a press conference in Zonkwa on Saturday, the PDP Chairman in Zangon Kataf LGA, Mr. Martins Koya, said the position was unanimously adopted by executives of the party's 11 wards and key stakeholders across the local government.

Koya stated that the stakeholders resolved to resist any attempt to alter the outcome of the May 17, 2026 primary election, insisting that the wishes of delegates who participated in the exercise must be respected.

According to him, Gideon Jock emerged winner of the primary election, while Mathew Gwaza and Rijo Shekari came second and third respectively.

He maintained that any attempt to replace the winner with another aspirant would amount to a violation of the democratic principles upon which the party is founded.

"The outcome of the primary election reflects the will of delegates who freely exercised their rights. Any attempt to substitute the winner will undermine confidence in the party's democratic processes," Koya said.

He added that the resolution adopted by ward executives and stakeholders represented the collective position of the PDP structure in Zangon Kataf and was aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the party.

Also speaking, PDP State Officer, Mr. Micah Audu, dismissed suggestions that the stakeholders' position was targeted at any individual aspirant, stressing that the issue was strictly about protecting the sanctity of the electoral process.

Audu described Rijo Shekari as a respected member of the party who has every constitutional right to seek elective office but argued that replacing the candidate who secured victory at the primary election would amount to disregarding the mandate freely given by delegates.

"This is not about personalities or personal interests. It is about ensuring that the outcome of a duly conducted primary election is respected and that the votes of delegates are not rendered meaningless," he said.

He further noted that stakeholders were only demanding fairness, justice and strict adherence to due process, warning that any attempt to overturn the result could create unnecessary disaffection within the party.

The stakeholders therefore called on the state and national leadership of the PDP to uphold the outcome of the primary election and recognise the candidate who polled the highest number of votes as the party's flag bearer for the 2027 general election.

They also appealed to party members across the constituency to remain calm, united and focused on strengthening the PDP ahead of future elections while awaiting the final decision of the appropriate organs of the party.

Reaffirming their loyalty to the PDP, the stakeholders pledged their continued commitment to the party, insisting that respect for due process and democratic principles remains essential to preserving the confidence of members and supporters.